Make-over project; a table transformed

This table arrived coated in a thick, drippy coat of white gloss. I wanted to experiment with various layers of paint to achieve new depths of colour. This is how I set about transforming the table…

Before....

Step 1

I sanded the table thoroughly and scrubbed it with a fairly abrasive cream cleaner.

Step 2

When completely dry, I applied a first coat of Annie Sloan’s chalk paint in Chateau Green.

Step 3

I added patches of colour in a contrasting colour, Primer Red, especially on the scalloped edges which will be finished in a gold paint.

Step 4

I mixed up a lighter version of the paint by adding Paris Grey to the Chateau Green and brushed it on, not being too careful to cover the previous coats entirely.

Step 5

I used an artist’s acrylic gold paint on the edges, brushing it on drily with plenty of opportunity for the previous coats to show underneath. The gold looks especially good on the red background. A few gold specks spattered all over can also add life to the paintwork. Add a little water for a slightly wetter paint to achieve delicate specks.

Step 6

I applied a coat of wax with a brush, wiping off the excess with a clean cloth.

Step 7

I took to the table with fine sand paper to reveal more of the first and second colours, especially where the table historically may have been subject to wear and tear.

Step 7

I applied a second coat of wax, which was left to dry overnight before buffing up into a gentle glow.

... After

Sadly the table is not for sale, but I will be producing similar ones! Soon I will be running workshops on how to be creative with paint and transform a piece of furniture that is not realising its potential! Watch this space or contact me via the Contact page.

Also new in the shop is this piano stool, which doubles as a music cabinet. The drawers are painted pink on the inside and the stool has been reupholstered in a cheerful Cath Kidston fabric.

2 Comments

That’s a lot of work that goes into a piece of your furniture.Thanks for sharing the fascinating behind the scenes look at what you do. The final result is lovely – no wonder you would rather keep it than sell it!